Rishikesh Riverfront Walk: Temples, Bridges & Sivananda Ashram

Laxman Jhula is an iconic iron-suspension bridge spanning the Ganges River at Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India.
According to legend, the Hindu deity Lakshmana (younger brother of Lord Rama) crossed the river at this location using jute ropes.
The bridge connects the villages/areas of Tapovan (west bank) and Jonk (east bank).
Built in 1929 (or thereabouts) to replace earlier rope and steel-rope crossings.

It enjoys both cultural/spiritual significance (given the myth & the surrounding ashrams) and acts as a major tourist landmark thanks to its views of the Ganges and foothills of the Himalayas

Swarg Ashram is a peaceful and spiritually-oriented ashram situated on the east bank of the Ganges River in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, nestled between the river and the Shivalik foothills.

It lies close to the bridge zones of Ram Jhula/Lakshman Jhula making it accessible from the main tourist stretch

Gita Bhavan Ashram is one of the oldest and most peaceful ashrams in Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, located on the serene banks of the Ganga River. Known for its calm ambience and spiritual atmosphere, it attracts devotees, yoga practitioners, and travelers seeking a quiet place for meditation.
Key Highlights

Historic Ashram: Built with the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita as its foundation.

Peaceful Setting: Surrounded by lush greenery and river views, ideal for meditation & introspection.

Free Stay Facilities: Traditionally offers simple, dorm-style accommodation for pilgrims (subject to availability & season).

Spiritual Activities: Daily satsangs, chanting, meditation sessions, and religious discourses.

Ayurvedic Shops & Bookstore: Sells spiritual books, Gita texts, Ayurvedic medicines, and natural products.

Close to Attractions: Walking distance from Parmarth Niketan, Ram Jhula, and the river ghats.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is the largest ashram in Rishikesh, located on the holy banks of the Ganga River near Ram Jhula. Known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual environment, it attracts thousands of devotees, yoga practitioners, and travelers from around the world.

Key Highlights

World-Renowned Ashram: Founded in 1942; home to over 1,000 rooms with peaceful gardens and spiritual ambience.

Famous Ganga Aarti: The Parmarth Ganga Aarti at sunset is one of the most beautiful and well-organised in Rishikesh.

Yoga & Spiritual Programs: Daily yoga classes, meditation, satsangs, and wellness programs led by experienced teachers.

Ayurveda & Healing: Offers holistic treatments, herbal therapies, and spiritual counselling.

International Yoga Festival Venue: Hosts the annual International Yoga Festival, attended by thousands from across the globe.

Janki Jhula, officially known as Janki Setu, is one of the newest and most modern pedestrian bridges in Rishikesh, inaugurated in 2020. Built across the Ganga River, it connects Muni Ki Reti with Swarg Ashram, offering travelers a smooth, scenic, and less crowded alternative to Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula.

Key Highlights

Modern 3-Lane Bridge: India’s first three-lane suspension bridge with dedicated paths for pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheelers.

Beautiful River Views: Offers panoramic views of the Ganga, ashrams, and the Himalayan foothills.

Peaceful Alternative: Much less crowded than Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, perfect for photography and peaceful walks.

Easy Connectivity: Improves access between major spiritual areas like Parmarth Niketan, Gita Bhavan, Swarg Ashram, and Muni Ki Reti.

Night Lighting: Looks stunning in the evening with decorative LED lights.

Why Visit

Visit Janki Jhula for relaxed riverside walks, scenic vistas, photography

Sivananda Ashram, headquarters of The Divine Life Society, is one of the most respected spiritual centers in Rishikesh. Founded in 1936 by Swami Sivananda, the ashram is known for its deep spiritual atmosphere, disciplined lifestyle, and teachings based on yoga, Vedanta, and selfless service.

Historic Spiritual Centre: A major hub for seekers of yoga, meditation, and traditional Indian philosophy.

Daily Spiritual Routine: Includes morning meditation, Ganga prayers, scripture study, satsangs, and lectures by senior swamis.

Peaceful Riverside Location: Situated on the quiet banks of the Ganga near Ram Jhula, ideal for contemplation and walks.

Library & Bookstore: One of the best collections of spiritual books authored by Swami Sivananda and other masters.

Why Visit

Perfect for travelers seeking authentic spiritual practice, quiet surroundings, and the disciplined ashram lifestyle rooted in ancient Indian traditions.